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by Chia Han Keong
SINGAPORE marched into the Asean Football Federation Suzuki Cup semi-finals with a 100-per-cent record, after beating Indonesia 2-0 at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta last night.
A third-minute header by defender Baihakki Khaizan and a stunning free kick by midfielder Shi Jiayi early in the second half sealed a sparkling display by the Lions, who refused to wilt under pressure in the intimidating atmosphere of the stadium filled with 30,000 partisan fans.
While Indonesia dominated possession, they failed to show a clinical touch in front of goal, and were made to pay for unnecessary fouls that resulted in the goals.
The result meant that Singapore topped Group B with three wins out of three and a maximum nine points.
Indonesia also qualified for the semi-finals in second place with six points.
They will face the Group A winners, while Singapore take on the runners-up.
Thailand lead Group A on six points, while Malaysia and Vietnam are tied on three. Laos, with no points, are in last place.
Thailand will play Malaysia tonight, with Vietnam facing Laos at the same time.
Judging from the Lions' performance last night, it is safe to say that they will be a tough team for any of the Group A contenders to beat.
Despite resting three regular starters - Noh Alam Shah, Shahril Ishak and Mustafiq Fahrudin - the Lions were well-organised and assured in shutting out Indonesia.
They struck an early blow to the hosts when Baihakki connected John Wilkinson's free kick with a powerful header that gave goalkeeper Markus Rihihina no chance.
And Shi added the icing on the cake in the 50th minute with a glorious goal.
From the left edge of the penalty box, his free-kick screamed past the wall and a hapless Rihihina into goal.
hankeong@sph.com.sg
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